Powys Councillors Call For Investigation Into Street Lighting Decision (Brecon and Radnorshire Liberal Democrats)

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Brecon and Radnorshire Liberal Democrats <info@brecon-radnor-libdems.org.uk>

Powys Councillors Call For Investigation Into Street Lighting Decision

October 10, 2008 9:48 AM

Day burning (broken) street light This morning the Vice -chair of Powys County Councils Principal Scrutiny Committee requested a call in of the procedures to date, regarding the decision of the councils Board to switch off of street lighting throughout the county. Councillor Liam Fitzpatrick has requested an urgent meeting of the Principal Scrutiny Committee to address the many concerns of residents throughout Powys.

Councillor Liam Fitzpatrick of Talybont Ward said "I have been approached by elected members of all political parties throughout Powys who have been contacted by their residents. Many of these residents are extremely concerned by the decision of Powys County Council Board, on 15th July to switch off 67% of the streetlights outside core areas. Members have therefore asked me to look at the processes behind the current decision. The first procedure is to request a call in and I would hope after my discussions with the monitoring officer, a full investigation into the processes behind this decision can be conducted by the full Principal scrutiny committee, and then to bring their findings back to the council's board for perusal. This issue has affected many residents and deserves to be investigated further. Principal Scrutiny is not responsible for policy and reports only on the processes of decisions that have been taken. It is hoped that the Board will pay attention to the findings of this committee".

Cllr Avril Yorke of Builth Wells said "I am pleased to support the call in of the street lighting decision. I have been contacted by many residents who are concerned about tripping over and falling as a consequence of unlit streets".

Cllr Clair Powell of Bronllys Ward said "Whilst I welcome the switching off of lights that are not needed, in order to reduce our energy consumption, I am very concerned that lights have been switched off in some areas which is causing great safety concerns. I am confident that the Principal Scrutiny Committee will look at this decision carefully and that common sense will prevail".

Contact: Cllr Liam Fitzpatrick 07817071247